Linescio-Campo Vallemaggia

Following a winding drive there, it is worth having a look around Linescio. The 25 km or so of dry stone walls used to create terraced fields in the steep terrain testify to back-breaking work in earlier times.

The tour, most of which takes place in the shade, starts above the church: take the steps up to the last houses, where a path leads to the main road. This conducts you past ancient gardens with interesting walls. Continue to the hamlet of Camvera, home to the oldest sweet chestnut tree in the Maggia valley. The path climbs steeply through the chestnut wood to Cerentino and Piede delle Piode. Pass through the village and along the main road to Niva.

Now pick up the footpath to Piano di Campo, where again there's a short stretch on the road. The final section passes through the Sterpa valley on the original path to Campo Vallemaggia. The church in Campo is worth a visit. Check your bus times in advance.